WORKERS at Wrexham’s Air Products factory have been told the site will close, with the loss of 200 jobs.

The company blamed the decision on cost pressures, the challenging economic climate and the changing demand for its products which is shifting to other parts of the world, notably Asia.

In a statement, Laurence O’Donnell, general manager at Acrefair, said: “It is with great sadness that we announced to our people the decision to close our manufacturing facility in Acrefair, North Wales.

“We recognise the impact this will have on our employees, their families and the local community.

“We will now continue to consult with them regarding the impact of this decision. We will also be working with organisations such as JobCentre Plus to put in place dedicated support for our employees.”

He added: “A comprehensive and thorough counter proposal was put forward by our employees, offering suggestions for cost reductions at the facility. Regrettably, after careful consideration, none of these suggestions put forward were sufficient to alter the recommendation.”

Martyn Jones, MP for Clwyd South, said the news was “desperately disappointing”.

Clwyd South AM Karen Sinclair AM said: “This is devastating news for the town. Air Products has been an important part of the Wrexham area for many, many years and I’m heartbroken for the workers at the site.”

North Wales AM Janet Ryder said workers had been “victims of changes in the market and the global downturn”.